Modern pottery follows Japanese tradition

The functional ceramics of Masayuki Miyajima are beautiful examples of artisanship and aesthetics.

The functional ceramics of Masayuki Miyajima are beautiful examples of artisanship and aesthetics.

His latest collection, on view in the Dublin Arts Center, presents about 40 pieces that are modern yet rooted in the classical traditions of pottery.

Miyajima has worked closely with the potters and artists of the Mashiko region in Japan -- which is tied to the Mingei folk-art traditions. The region is known for its evocative earthenware.

Large Plate is imposing in scale and surface treatment. Using an iron glaze, Miyajima has colored the platter in rich blacks and browns. The metal in the glaze gives the piece a sparkling iridescence. A swirl motif covers the large surface of the plate. Working the unfired clay by hand brings about its special texture.

Another Large Plate is equally impressive, even regal. Colored with a brown, gray and off-white palette, a Karakusa pattern (also known as Japanese arabesque) adorns the surface. The abstract motif, organic and inspired by nature, has a wonderful sense of line.

Other pieces -- Carved Jar, Carved Vase and Arabesque Pitcher -- are also embellished with Karakusa patterning. Although the pattern remains the same, Miyajima's play with negative and positive space makes each vessel seem unique. Plate, a dinner-sized platter, has a brown-and-cream outer rim with a blue-and-brown center. The vivid contrast shows that Miyajima is a superb colorist.

Square Plate, with gently undulating lines forming the rim, uses a painterly approach to glazing. Reminiscent of color-field painting, the piece uses brown, green and bronze tints to flood the surface like watercolors bleeding into one another.

The powerful Paddled Vase is all black but uses alternating spaces on the surface with matte or glossy glazes to create a wonderful patina. The new piece looks ancient.

The simple Carved Footed Plate makes minimal use of line and color. The piece epitomizes Miyajima's eye for detail and minimalism.

A series of teapots and bowls, white but with subtle colors bleeding through the glaze, is elegant.